Wednesday 15th June 2005
Buongiorno from Rome! I'm sitting here on my balcony, sipping a cappuccino (well, actually a pink latte - I did try to request a latte in the pinkest possible shade but the barista looked at me like I'd asked for the moon) and watching the world go by. It's absolutely teeming with life here, a kaleidoscope of colours and smells and sounds. And me? I'm wearing a fluffy pink tutu (obviously), my trusty pink converse, and a flowing, floral, sundress that practically screams 'Roma!'. I feel absolutely fabulous!
This is my fifth week in Rome, and I'm already starting to feel like a local! My travels here are funded by my ballet performances - you'd be amazed how many weddings and balls happen in this city, and every girl needs a ballerina for those big events. Plus, it gives me the perfect excuse to wear all my sparkly pink tutus! I love the freedom and spontaneity of my travelling lifestyle, and there's something magical about discovering a new city, new sounds, new smells, and new… well, everything.
This week has been an absolute whirl, filled with shopping, sightseeing, and, of course, ballet! My trip to the Opera House last night was pure magic. The opera singers' voices were so powerful, the orchestra's music was so enchanting, and the story was simply captivating. It reminded me of how much I adore the ballet and the sheer drama and beauty of a performance. The ballet's graceful movements were perfectly reflected in the performance. Afterwards, I found a little pink boutique nestled in the cobbled backstreets and picked up a divine pink cashmere scarf that smells faintly of rose petals and sunshine. It was a little pricey, but it's worth every penny!
Today's adventure is a visit to the Vatican City. I'm absolutely buzzing with excitement to see St. Peter's Basilica and all the art and history there. Who knows, maybe I'll even get to twirl my tutu in front of Michelangelo's Pietà! The thought is pure bliss.
Yesterday was such a fun day! We ventured down to the Roman Forum and marveled at the ruins. There's something breathtaking about standing among these ancient stones and imagining the hustle and bustle of life so many years ago. I could almost hear the crowds, the echoes of chariot races, the cries of merchants, and even a touch of Roman music, a faint flute song of the ancient ages, ringing through the air! Later, we enjoyed an afternoon tea at the most charming tea room - they had delicious finger sandwiches, strawberry scones and of course, my favourite pink strawberry jam and lashings of cream, topped with little edible pink glitter roses. So chic!
Now, this evening is another big night! I've booked tickets for the "Caracalla Baths" open air theatre show. They're a world-famous performance with amazing music and special effects, all set in the beautiful ancient baths. I've been reading that it's even inspired some ballet scenes. Can't wait to be inspired!
Oh, and a little announcement: This Wednesday, July 6th, I'm heading over to Florence! That means more amazing art and architecture, more gelato (my new favourite treat!), and maybe a spot of dress shopping at one of Florence's world-famous boutiques. It's time to pick up some new gowns, my fellow ballerinas!
Keep an eye out on www.pink-tutu.com next Wednesday for a full recap of my adventures. I promise to bring you the inside scoop on all the hidden gems of Florence, plus the latest fashion trends from the catwalk! I'll also be featuring a ballet class on the Roman forum where I was inspired by its elegant architecture. I'm trying to make my own tutus at home and bring more pink tutus into the world for us. So you have to wait and see, and read the next Pink Tutu post!
Until then, chin up, put on your fanciest pink tutus, and twirl with joy!
Emma xoxoxo
